inferior salivatory nucleus
Quick Summary
The inferior salivatory nucleus is a collection of nerve cell bodies located in the medulla oblongata, part of the brainstem. This nucleus is crucial for the parasympathetic nervous system's control over salivation. It sends general visceral efferent fibers via the lesser petrosal branch of the glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX) to the otic ganglion. From the otic ganglion, postganglionic fibers innervate the parotid salivary gland, stimulating the production of saliva. This is a key component of the autonomic nervous system's role in regulating bodily functions, specifically in the digestive process.12
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